In an unpredictable finale Dec. 22, the two performers lost out to Melanie Amaro for a $5 million recording contract AND a Pepsi commercial. So where does this leave them? Empty handed?

I know the show gave them each a platform for their music and a fan base of millions of people, which they didn’t have six months ago, but I kind of wish they could have split the recording deal three ways. That would have left them with more than a million each — AND a recording contract. Boom!

Sadly, that’s not how it went down.

There’s no doubt in my mind Josh and Chris will try their darndest to break into the music world outside of the reality show, but I really hope mentors Simon Cowell and L.A. Reid don’t leave them to fend for themselves. Both of those guys have the means and the power within the industry to help Chris and Josh thrive. After growing close to them throughout the competition, you’d think they would extend a helping hand.

Additionally, Josh and Chris both have young kids — they won’t be able to put work aside and pursue money without an income. Unless success comes fast, I don’t know how they’ll be able to support their families AND hustle to create an album.

What do you think? Should L.A. and Simon make sure Chris and Josh are taken care of — or should they prove themselves all over again?